Remove NURY Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .nury FILES)

remove NURY ransomware virus and learn how to decrypt or repair files with .nury extension (free guide)

NURY ransomware virus: a data-encrypting threat

Contents

NURY ransomware virus: a data-encrypting threat
- Reasons why you should never pay a ransom to cybercriminals
- Ransomware Summary
Ransomware in general
Ransomware distribution methods used by cybercriminals
Remove NURY ransomware virus ASAP
Decrypt NURY files
Frequently Asked Questions

NURY ransomware is a malicious computer virus created by cybercriminals behind the infamous STOP/DJVU ransomware group. The moment this virus infects a computer, it will immediately commence file encryption i.e., reducing files, pictures, and videos to unreadable junk. It will follow up on that by appending .nury extension to each of the encrypted files. For example, files that were originally saved as 1.png or 2.jpeg before the computer becoming infected automatically become 1.png.nury and 2.jpeg.nury. The reason for altering the file names is to identify the infected ones.

Meanwhile, as the encryption is still going on, text notes referred to as _readme.txt would be forwarded to the affected folders. These notes are sent by the cybercriminals behind the attack and notify the victim about what has happened. They would brag that the attack was a huge success, and therefore the victim must pay a certain amount of money as ransom fees if they hope to recover their files. To allow for further discussions between both sides, they would also drop two email addresses, i.e., support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.

Reasons why you should never pay a ransom to cybercriminals

However, we advise victims never to reach out to cybercriminals nor respond to them. From past experiences of other victims, nothing good ever comes out of any discussion with cybercriminals. They would promise to decrypt all encrypted files once the victim pays a ransom fee. But from our studies, they don’t seem to keep to their word – they disappear into thin air once ransom payment is made. This article will further discuss why it is very important for victims to ignore cybercriminals totally.

Although the criminals responsible for STOP/DJVU attacks usually state that the ransom fee is $980, they would also add a caveat that victims who can pay on short notice can leverage their 50% discount. In other words, they are willing to accept only $490 from victims that can pay it within 72 hours or three days of being told to do so. However, if for any reason they couldn’t complete the transaction within that stipulated time, they would automatically nullify the ransom slash and insist on full payment.

There are other bottlenecks the NURY ransomware victim also has to contend with; for instance, cybercriminals do not accept conventional payment methods such as money transfer or bank payment. Instead, they make it mandatory for their victim to make use of cryptocurrency. So, they would be told to purchase the cryptocurrency equivalence of the ransom fee quoted in the dollar and transfer it to a wallet address that would be provided by them.

However, the FBI, as well as other globally recognized security organizations, has issued statements warning victims against complying with the monetary demands of cybercriminals. Here are some of the factors that were considered before making ransom payments illegal.

When victims pay the ransom, they enable cybercriminals to expand their operations, thereby becoming a threat to a greater number of people.
It enriches criminals and encourages them to continue their criminal activities.
Victims that pay a ransom are usually targeted again in the future because cybercriminals are greedy in nature and never satisfied.
Ransom payment by victims makes criminality profitable, which serves as an incentive to those engaged in such illegal activities.

That said, we suggest that you remove NURY ransomware virus as soon as you can. You can find a detailed tutorial below this article on how to boot your PC in Safe Mode with Networking. Once you do that, use a trustworthy antivirus to delete malware remains for you. Our team’s top pick for Windows is INTEGO Antivirus.

Ransomware Summary

Name	NURY Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	TOWZ, TOHJ, TUIS, TURY, POHJ, POWZ (find full list here)
Version	589th
Extension	.nury
Cybercriminal emails	support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Additional malware dropped	Azorult or Vidar Trojan
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .nury extension. Ransom notes called as _readme.txt will be dropped in every computer folder. This piece of malware usually drags VIDAR Stealer alongside it and also eliminates VSS from the system. On top of that, it tends to modify Windows HOSTS file to restrict computer user’s access to cybersecurity-related websites online.
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom demand	$490-$980 in Bitcoin
Distribution	Victims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico.
Known software cracks to contain this malware	Corel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, League of Legends.
Detection names	Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.MK!MTB (Microsoft), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Scarsi.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal
Removal	Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software like INTEGO Antivirus.

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Ransomware in general

Cybercriminals continue to threaten the safe use of computers globally, especially with the release and spread of NURY ransomware virus developed by the STOP/DJVU group. As each new ransomware virus is released, it becomes expedient for computer users to take necessary steps that would ensure their PC and the files contained in them are protected.

The cybercriminals behind most of these damaging malware aim to extort huge sums of money from their unsuspecting victims. Therefore, they exploit a number of deceptive methods in their attempts to take their victims unaware.

The latest versions of these ransomware viruses are easily triggered and also have a fast encryption pace. As a result, prevention remains the best way of protecting your computer. However, if a computer becomes infected, removing the virus as soon as possible is crucial to mitigate possible damages.

In addition to the primary malware, cybercriminals equally use the opportunity to attack other dangerous Trojans, collectively known as Remote Access Trojans or RATs for short. The purpose is to use them to steal vital personal data like software login details, banking details, browsing history, etc.

Ransomware distribution methods used by cybercriminals

As stated earlier, there are a number of deceptive methods used by cybercriminals to take their victims unawares. The most common ones include the following:

Online torrent platforms

Cybercriminals understand that some software users prefer to avoid paying the fees requested by the original content producers. So they cunningly clone such tools, particularly the popular ones, embed them with malware, and then upload them to online torrent platforms. When intending users download them to their computer, they end up causing a ransomware attack.

Use of emails and attachments

Sometimes, cybercriminals may decide to impersonate friends or family or even notable brands such as Amazon, DHL or eBay, etc. They may also use business terms like Invoice, Order Summary, or Tracking Number in tagging the attachment. If the recipient falls for the gimmick and tries to open it, it will automatically trigger a ransomware attack. Therefore, you should scrutinize the source of such emails/attachments. Is the originating address genuine, or are they spoofed? Why should you be receiving such an email? The answers to these questions should determine your next line of action.

P2P downloads

The safest way of getting needed software tools is by paying the necessary fees and downloading them from official sites endorsed by copyright owners. Trying to use P2P sharing devices is risky and can lead to the spread of viruses.

As you can see, using any of these methods to download needed software tools is quite dangerous and can put your computer at risk. On the contrary, you’re better off going to the official websites of the original content owners to source for it. Whatever fees you may be asked to pay is adequate compensation for the copyright owners considering that a lot of resources must have been spent in the course of research and development of the software tool.

Another important factor to consider is that popular files like XLS, PDF, and DOCX, including other similar ones, are now being exploited by cybercriminals as mediums for spreading malware. The macro properties available in these files are what they exploit to attach, transfer and trigger ransomware viruses in various computers. Based on that, it is very important for computer users to apply caution when such files appear in their inboxes or spam.

Here is a list of notable software content often pirated and used by cybercriminals in spreading ransomware viruses:

Adobe Photoshop;
Corel Draw;
HP Printer Drivers;
VMware Workstation;
Microsoft Office;
PES 20;
Internet Download Manager;
Cubase;
League of Legends;
Adobe Premiere Pro;
AutoCad;
Adobe Illustrator;
Tenorshare 4ukey.

Remove NURY ransomware virus ASAP

You must remove NURY ransomware virus once it is detected in any computer to mitigate possible damages. We recommend using INTEGO Antivirus for successful malware removal. Additionally, you’re advised to ignore any websites that claim to offer decryption solutions because they’re mostly fraudulent.

Here are other important steps you should take:

Change all passwords without delay.
Use any available backup to restore lost files.
Inform any relevant government agency close to you.

Most of all, ensure reliable antivirus software is installed and active on your computer at all times.

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Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system:

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NURY Ransomware Virus Removal Guidelines

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove NURY Ransomware Virus virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, if you prefer a video version of the tutorial, check our guide How to Start Windows in Safe Mode on Youtube.

Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users

First of all, turn off your PC. Then press the Power button to start it again and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. This launches the Advanced Boot Options menu.
Use arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate down to Safe Mode with Networking option and press Enter.

Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users

Open Windows Start menu, then press down the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then select Restart option.
This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Networking. In this case, it is the F5 key.

Step 2. Remove files associated with the virus

Now, you can search for and remove NURY Ransomware Virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable security program such as INTEGO Antivirus, which also includes data recovery software. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.

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Method 2. Use System Restore

In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically.

Step 1. Boot Windows in Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users

Shut down your PC. Start it again by pressing the Power button and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. You will see Advanced Boot Options menu.
Using arrow keys on the keyboard, navigate down to Safe Mode with Command Prompt option and press Enter.

Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users

Launch Windows Start menu, then click the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then choose Restart option with the mouse cursor.
This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Command Prompt. In this case, press F6 key.

Step 2. Start System Restore process

Wait until system loads and command prompt shows up.
Type cd restore and press Enter, then type rstrui.exe and press Enter. Or you can just type %systemroot%system32restorerstrui.exe in command prompt and hit Enter.
This launches System Restore window. Click Next and then choose a System Restore point created in the past. Choose one that was created before ransomware infection.
Click Yes to begin the system restoration process.

After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won't be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

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Decrypt NURY files

Fix and open large NURY files easily:

It is reported that STOP/DJVU ransomware versions encrypt only the beginning 150 KB of each file to ensure that the virus manages to affect all files on the system. In some cases, the malicious program might skip some files at all. That said, we recommend testing this method on several big (>1GB) files first.

Create a copy of encrypted file to a separate folder using Copy > Paste commands.
Now, right-click the created copy and choose Rename. Select the NURY extension and delete it. Press Enter to save changes.
In the prompt asking whether you want to make the changes as file might become unusable, click OK.
Try opening the file.

STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide

STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. NURY Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like TOWZ, TOHJ, TUIS, TURY, POHJ, POWZ (find full list here). This means full data decryption is now possible only if you have been affected by offline encryption key. To decrypt your files, you will have to download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP DJVU, a tool created and maintained by a genius security researcher Michael Gillespie.

Note! Please do not spam the security researcher with questions whether he can recover your files encrypted with online key - it is not possible.

In order to test the tool and see if it can decrypt NURY files, follow the given tutorial.

Download the decryption tool from Emsisoft.
Click the little arrow next to your download and choose Show in Folder.
Now, right-click the file and choose Run as Administrator. If asked, enter administrator's password.
In UAC window, click Yes.
Click Yes to agree to software terms in both windows.
The tool will automatically include C:// disk as a location to decrypt. The file recovery tool will prepopulate the locations to scan, including connected data storage drives or network drives. Click Add folder if you wish to add additional locations.
In Options tab, you can choose to keep encrypted file copies. We recommend leaving this option selected, especially if you do not know if the decryption tool will work.
Click Decrypt to start restoring NURY files. You will see the progress in the Results tab. Here, you can see messages from the tool, such as whether the decryption procedure is successful, or you need to wait for an update.
You might also be informed that online key was used to encrypt your files. In such case, the decryption tool won't work for you, and the only way to recover your files is to use a data backup.

Meanings of decryptor's messages

The NURY decryption tool might display several different messages after failed attempt to restore your files. You might receive one of the following messages:

Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [example ID]

This message typically means that there is no corresponding decryption key in the decryptor's database.

No key for New Variant online ID: [example ID]
Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible

This message informs that your files were encrypted with online key, meaning no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair, therefore data recovery without paying the criminals is impossible.

Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]
This ID appears to be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future.

If you were informed that an offline key was used, but files could not be restored, it means that the offline decryption key isn't available yet. However, receiving this message is extremely good news, meaning that it might be possible to restore your NURY extension files in the future. It can take a few months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. We recommend you to follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here. We strongly recommend backing up your encrypted data and waiting.

Report Internet crime to legal departments

Victims of NURY Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:

In the United States, go to the On Guard Online website.
In Australia, go to the SCAMwatch website.
In Germany, go to the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik website.
In Ireland, go to the An Garda Síochána website.
In New Zealand, go to the Consumer Affairs Scams website.
In the United Kingdom, go to the Action Fraud website.
In Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
In India, go to Indian National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
In France, go to the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information.

If you can't find an authority corresponding to your location on this list, we recommend using any search engine to look up "[your country name] report cyber crime". This should lead you to the right authority website. We also recommend staying away from third-party crime report services that are often paid. It costs nothing to report Internet crime to official authorities.

Another recommendation is to contact your country's or region’s federal police or communications authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

✓ How can I open .NURY files?

You can only open NURY files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.

✓ How do I know if my files were encrypted with offline or online encryption?

To figure out whether you were affected by offline encryption, please go to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt and see if the string inside of it ends in t1. You can also try using Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP/DJVU.

✓ My files contain very important information (family memories). Every tool I used says it is impossible to decrypt. What should I do?

Please follow the guidances provided by the official NURY decryption tools and believe what they say. If they say it is impossible to decrypt, it really is so. There is no magic tool or human capable of decrypting your files hiding somewhere. Encryption is a technique created to be nearly impossible to decrypt without a special private key (held by the criminals).

✓ I am afraid virus is still in my computer system. What should I do?

We advise scanning with anti-virus, anti-malware, malware removal tools or software like RESTORO to eliminate virus damage on the system. If you do not trust using a single tool, try running one after another. However, we do not recommend keeping several security programs on a computer at once as they can interfere with each other's work.

✓ I saw several Youtube videos suggesting secret decryption tools. Can I trust them?

Beware of fake NURY decryption tools circulating around the web. Cyber criminals are uploading them to various shady websites, also might be promoting them via suspicious Youtube videos. These programs can infect your computer even more heavily (Trojans, miners, etc.). We suggest being extremely cautious around the web. If there will be an official STOP/DJVU decryption tool available, it will be widely discussed in public media.

Norbert Webb

Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.